WhatsApp Now Offers Self-Destructing Voice Messages: Here's How to Use Them

Exciting news for WhatsApp users! The popular "View Once" feature, currently available for photos and videos, is finally expanding to encompass voice messages. 

This highly anticipated update allows users to send ephemeral voice notes that disappear after a single listen, adding a layer of privacy and control to their communications.

The feature was first noticed by WABetaInfo in October 2023 and it mentioned: “In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.7.8 update, we shared important information regarding the ability to set view once mode to voice notes. With this feature, it would have been possible to share voice notes with a new layer of privacy as they cannot be saved, forwarded, and exported.”

Now WhatsApp in a blog mentioned: “We introduced View Once for photos and videos back in 2021 to add another layer of privacy to your messages. Today, we’re excited to announce you can now send a voice message that will disappear once listened to. For reading out your credit card details to a friend, or when you’re planning a surprise, you can now also share sensitive information over voice message with added peace of mind.”
While the terminology may seem a bit contradictory ("view" for audio), the functionality remains clear: send voice messages that self-destruct after one listen. 

This provides a convenient way to share sensitive information, like credit card details or surprise party plans. But the applications extend beyond practicality, opening doors for more personal and spontaneous communication, whether it's venting about your boss or expressing romantic feelings.

How to Use the View Once Feature for Voice Messages?

To use "View Once" for voice messages, simply tap the "1" icon appearing next to the message's waveform while recording. This simple action ensures your voice message remains a fleeting moment, shared and then gone, leaving no digital footprint to linger.

With the arrival of "View Once" for voice messages, WhatsApp further solidified its position as a versatile and privacy-conscious communication platform. 

This update empowers users to share information with greater confidence and control, while also adding a fun and dynamic element to their interactions. So, stay tuned, update your app, and get ready to explore the possibilities of ephemeral voice messaging on WhatsApp!